West Virginia is the first state to introduce a statewide program that allows paramedics to give whole blood to patients on ambulances.
Whole blood transfusions help quickly restore blood volume and improve clotting, which can help severely injured patients survive the trip to the hospital.
The West Virginia Department of Health DH says severe bleeding is one of the top causes of death from trauma, and stabilizing patients quickly is key to saving their lives.
Sherri Young, the DH Secretary, emphasized the state’s commitment to expanding the program. “We are working hard to make whole blood transfusions available in more counties until it covers the entire state.”
The program started in Cabell County in November 2023, and Harrison County joined in March 2024. So far, 16 patients across the state have received whole blood transfusions, helping them reach the hospital for further treatment.
Joseph Ratliff, the director of Emergency Medical Services, said these improvements are making a real difference. “Patients are getting critical care right away, which greatly increases their chances of survival,” he said. “All patients who received whole blood on the way to the hospital have made it there successfully for further care.”
Kanawha County is close to launching the program, with the Charleston Fire Department involved. Camden Clark Ambulance Service in Wood County is just starting to set up the program. Mineral County has the equipment and is working with WVU Medicine to get it started.
The DH also stressed that blood donations are essential to keep the program going and encouraged people in West Virginia to donate blood through the Red Cross.